Author Archives: Locksmith Sarasota

The Top Stolen Vehicles In Florida & How To Protect Your Vehicle From Theft

The Top Stolen Vehicles In Florida & How To Protect Your Vehicle From TheftNo one wants to think about their car being stolen. That’s because your vehicle is more than just a valuable possession, it’s crucial transportation – especially when you have children or face an emergency situation. The unfortunate reality is that vehicle thefts happen quite often. Each year, America sees almost 600,000 automobile thefts.

Top Stolen Vehicles In America

These incidents also involve a variety of machine thefts, including scooters, all-terrain vehicles, and motorcycles. Some are at higher risk of being stolen than others, however. Across the nation, the vehicles most often stolen are:

  • Honda Accord
  • Honda Civic
  • Ford Truck
  • Chevrolet Truck
  • Toyota Camry
  • Dodge Truck
  • Dodge Caravan
  • Nissan Altima
  • Acura Integra
  • Nissan Maxima

Top Stolen Vehicles In Florida

But here in Florida, things are a bit different. While many of the contenders are the same, there are a few noticeable differences. Vehicles most often that have been stolen in the Sunshine State are:

  • Ford Truck
  • Honda Civic
  • Honda Accord
  • Toyota Camry
  • Nissan Altima
  • Toyota Corolla
  • Chevrolet Truck
  • Nissan Maxima
  • Chevrolet Impala
  • Dodge Truck

Are you surprised by the findings? Many people don’t think vehicles such as the Honda Accord or Camry would be targeted. What’s more concerning is that the Ford F-Series is the most frequently stolen, but also the most popular truck in the nation with more than 750,000 sales annually.

So how can you protect your property?

Tips For Protecting Your Vehicle From Theft

There are plenty of ways to help keep your ride safe, and many of them are easy to integrate into your routine. For example, you should always be mindful of where you leave your keys. You can also park in safer, cleaner areas whenever possible. But this is just the beginning. If you want maximum automobile security, you should:

  • Keep your vehicle in a garage – Thieves target vehicles on the street. They’re easy to find, approach, and ultimately take. If you have a garage, you should use it when possible. If you do not have a garage, building one could be a worthy investment.
  • Maintain the vehicle – Believe it or not, the better care you take of your ride, the less likely it is to be targeted. Thieves know you probably have an alarm if you value your ride. Keep your car clean and cared for, and it will deter criminals on its own.
  • Place an alarm sticker on the window – LED lights work, too. Thieves want vehicles that are easy to swipe, and any sign of an alarm will help turn them away. Even if there is no alarm system, the chance that there could be will make them think twice.
  • Remove your valuables – Criminals are tempted to break into your car if they see something worth stealing. You should always put away mobile devices, navigation systems, purses, and so forth. Even if you leave them in the vehicle, place them somewhere out of sight of passersby.
  • Use a steering club – Installing one of these gives thieves serious pause, even though they’re not extremely effective. It works the same way as the stickers and lights by presenting the impression of a challenge.
  • Lock the doors – It sounds simple, but it’s effective. Many people think locking the doors doesn’t matter since a criminal will break the window to access your car. The truth, however, is that thieves will target cars and trucks that can be easily accessed. Most thieves simply target the first unlocked vehicle they come upon.
  • Use a hidden kill switch – This is far more expensive, but it could be well worth the cost and effort. Once installed, your car won’t run until a secret switch is flipped. The switch can be placed just about anywhere. Most thieves will simply move on instead of trying to figure out how to get the car started.
  • Take the steering wheel –  Again, this is a more in-depth solution, but it works. Criminals are more likely to pass by your automobile if it doesn’t have a steering wheel.
  • Buy a standard shift – Many people can’t drive manual vehicles so these cars are often bypassed by would-be thieves.

When it comes to keeping your vehicle safe, common sense and due diligence go a long way.

A Brief History Of Lock Picking

A Brief History Of Lock PickingThe lock got its start at the dawn of civilization, with early renditions simply using rope. No historian is truly sure who developed the first mechanical lock. Many believe the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians created them separately from each other. More than 6,000 years ago in Egypt, a locksmith managed to create a pin tumbler lock made completely out of wood. The first locks were not very secure, and “perfect security” — the term that security experts use to describe complete safety from intruders — was unattainable. That is, until an inventor named Joseph Bramah came along in the 1770s.

The “Perfect” Lock

A History Of Lock Picking - From Ancient Egypt To TodayIn the 1770s, Bramah arrived to the locksmithing scene in England as a polymath engineer. He created a lock that was far better than any other at that point in history: the Bramah safety lock. His lock had complex layers between the key and the lock’s deadbolt. He believed he’d created the perfect lock. Bramah was so confident in his lock that he even created a contest, offering 200 guineas (about $30,000 today) to anyone who could pick the lock. The British government took interest when the lock proved unbeatable.

The government wanted a perfect lock that would alert the owner if someone tried to open it. Thus, the Chubb detector lock came about, invented by locksmith Jeremiah Chubb. The lock would seize if a lockpicker tried to lift a tumbler too high, so that even the key wouldn’t work. The owner would know that someone tried to open the lock because he or she would have to use a separate key to reset the tumblers. From the 1770s until 1851, civilization enjoyed what is perhaps the only period of “perfect security” in history.

The Lock Controversy Of 1851

An American locksmith named A.C. Hobbs made a living selling his own locks. He generated a great deal of business by showing bank managers how easily he could pick their locks. During London’s Great Exhibition in 1851, Hobbs decided to end the era of perfect security by picking Chubb’s lock. It took him about 25 minutes to successfully get the lock open. Then, he moved on to pick the Bramah lock, which took him about 52 hours total. The feeling of perfect security evaporated.

What Security Looks Like Today

After the downfall of Bramah’s unbeatable lock, locksmiths created with their own renditions. Linus Yale, Jr. mass-produced his pin-and-tumbler locks until it became the world’s most commonly used lock. Yale locks still are available today, and his design likely is the same kind of lock on your doors. Pin-and-tumbler locks are relatively easy to pick if you know what you’re doing have the right tools. Today’s security depends on other more impressive technologies, such as electronic security systems and innovative technological locks.

Modern “lock picking” often involves a crowbar through the window or a breach of a high-tech security system. To protect your home, trust the professional locksmiths and security experts at Locksmith Sarasota.

 

Facts You Never Knew About Locksmiths

Facts You Never Knew About LocksmithsYou’ve locked yourself out your home and the only keys you have are inside. What do you do? Break down your own front door? Smash one of your windows? Calling a locksmith to come pick the lock and let you inside to get your keys is probably your best option.

Locksmiths provide an invaluable service; one that anyone who has ever needed it was extremely grateful for. However, the industry has some severe issues that people need to know about before they hire a locksmith.

Lax Regulations For Locksmiths

Were you aware that only 15 states in America require locksmiths to be licensed? This is a rather alarming fact, as it means that anyone can claim to be a locksmith without any legal proof of their profession. A person simply has to trust that the stranger saying they are a locksmith really is and doesn’t have some other motive for unlocking the door.

Facts You Never Knew About LocksmithsThe lack of licensing is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it makes it very difficult for people who need the help of a professional locksmith to ensure that they are actually getting that help and not that of an amateur or a person who isn’t a locksmith at all. On the other hand, the abundance of people who can claim to be locksmiths makes it difficult for true professionals to find work.

States That Require Licenses

The only states that require licenses for locksmiths are:

  • California
  • Alabama
  • Illinois
  • Connecticut
  • Nebraska
  • Maryland
  • Louisiana
  • Nevada
  • Oklahoma
  • North Carolina
  • New Jersey
  • Oregon
  • Virginia
  • Texas
  • Tennessee

Hiring a professional locksmith is critical. Not only will a professional have the knowledge and tools to properly help you, he or she will have had to have gone through rigorous background checks to ensure he or she isn’t a criminal.

Conditions Are Worse Out Of Country

Outside the United States, conditions are even worse for locksmiths. Very few countries regulate locksmiths at all. Complete strangers are allowed into a person’s private space, but few governments seem concerned with making sure that these strangers do not have any ill intentions toward the people who asked for their help. Japan, Poland, Hungary, and Canada are the only other countries to regulate the locksmith industry.

Expensive Practices

When you lock yourself out of something and need to call a locksmith, the only service you may want them to provide is to quickly pick the lock and allow you inside. However, this may not be the service you get. What little training most locksmith companies gives their employees is usually just about how to perform drills and replacements.

Drilling is when a locksmith drills out the lock in the door, destroying it in the process. Most people want to be able to lock their door afterward, so if the locksmith drills the lock the customer will also have them replace it.

Locksmiths are often trained not to offer any service other than drilling and replacing a lock. Even if a lock is undamaged and could easily be picked, they will still push the other service. This is because drilling and replacing a lock is the most expensive service locksmiths perform, and they know that most of their clients are desperate enough to accept the more expensive service rather than fighting for a cheaper one.

Not only do locksmiths often push customers to accept their most expensive services, the price for those services is not standardized. There is no set price for locksmithing services; a locksmith can charge any customer any price they believe the customer will pay.

What To Look For

So, if there are so many untrustworthy people claiming to be locksmiths, how can people find a good one? Here are some things to look for:

  • Pick a local service. They need to maintain a good reputation, to stay in business, so choose one that has been working in your area for a while.
  • If you live in one of the states that require locksmiths to be licensed, ask to see their certification.
  • Get a complete price quote on the phone before asking the locksmith to come to your location.

Finding a trustworthy locksmith is difficult, but at least knowing these things allows people to be forewarned before the next time they have to hire a locksmith. Remember to find a licensed locksmith, if possible, to make sure you only get the service you need and, above all else, protect yourself and your home.

Sarasota-Area Locksmiths

If you live in Sarasota and are in need of an honest, professional locksmith, you are in luck. Locksmith Sarasota is an expert and reliable family-owned locksmith company that can help most of its customers in less than half an hour.

The History Of Locks And How They Will Impact Our Future

This entry was posted in Locks and tagged , on by .

History Of Locks And How They Will Impact Our FutureLocks and keys form part of our everyday lives, but how often do we stop to think about them? Most of the time they exist only in the background, until something happens to them and we can’t access our stuff. The other time we think about locks is when our security has been breached and someone has damaged or destroyed our things, or taken them outright. All of these scenarios point to the importance of locks in our lives.

A Brief History Of Locks

Locks have been around for thousands of years. From the time the first human had something worth keeping, they were looking for a way to keep that item secure.

The first evidence of a lock designed to keep something secured dates to about 6,000 years ago. It was fashioned in Mesopotamia, which today is made up of modern Iraq, as well as parts of Syria, Iran and Turkey. A wooden pin lock was used during this time to keep possessions secured, as well as a means of keeping track of who was coming and going

First Pin Lock

Modern-day Iraq is also the birthplace of the pin lock. Archaeologists discovered a basic lock and key system while on a dig at the Palace of Khorsabad in the 1800s. The find dates to 4000 BC and its wooden design shares some basic similarities with modern locks.

Here’s how it worked: Pins of different lengths inside the lock mechanism would stop the door from opening unless the correct key was inserted in the lock. Only the correct key would push the pins up and move the wooden bolt holding the door securely in place could be pushed out of the way.

Development Of Metal Locks

Metal was first used to fashion locks using the same basic design developed in ancient times during the Middle Ages. Locks had a keyhole with a cylinder on their far end. The keyhole featured a series of wards, or concentric plates, that would be able to block a key from turning unless it had the correct pattern of notches to match they pattern or wards. If the key turned freely, it would engage the bolt when turned.

Modern Locksmithing Is Born

The Industrial Age of the 1760s saw power-driven machines replacing hand tools. During this period in history, Robert Barron patented a double-acting lever tumbler lock. His design required between two and four separate levers to lift to separate heights in order for a lock to be opened. These locks were more secure than anything on the market to date, but they could still be picked.

In 1784, Joseph Bramah patented his design for a lock that is still in use in London today. It uses a cylindrical key to press a number of wafers inside the locking device. The correct key hits the wafers and will retract the bolt.

Inventors like Chubb and Schlage improved upon these lock designs, adding their own innovations. Linus Yale, Jr. added the flat grooved key with a notched edge that we are all familiar with for residential locks.

The Future Of Locks

Our need for security has not gone away, but the way we keep things secure is ever-evolving. The future of locks will likely involve doing away with a physical key, which can be used by anyone who has access to it and can become lost.

Instead, digital locks are becoming more popular. We already have locks that can be programmed to use passwords, codes or fingerprints for authentication methods. Facial recognition software is now available to open some doors. Lock companies are also experimenting with technology that will allow you to open a lock with your smartphone or the sound of your voice.

In the meantime, you can trust Locksmith Sarasota for all your residential and commercial locksmith needs. Call us today if you want to replace or update your existing locks.

4th Of July Celebrations In Sarasota, FL!

This entry was posted in Local Events and tagged on by .

4th of July - LocksmithSarasotaAll of us at Locksmith Sarasota want to wish you and your family a happy 4th of July! We’ve selected a few events around town to help you plan your celebrations this year. Everything from live music, activities for the kids, excellent food, and of course – fireworks! We haven’t listed everything you can do around town but we’ve put together a list that has a little bit of something for everyone. Happy 4th of July, Sarasota!

July 4th Events In Sarasota And Bradenton

10th Annual Firecracker 5K Run-North Port

Get your blood flowing this 4th of July with the 10th Annual Firecracker 5k run in North Port. The flat, 3.1 mile race is a great way to start off the celebrations on the 4th. The race is well-marked and has a water stations on the course so you can stay hydrated. Entrance fees are $20 for early registration and goes up to $30 on race day. Prizes are handed out immediately following the race. Register and race at the Morgan Family Community center at 6207 W. Price Blvd., North Post. Arrive early for registration, the race begins at 7:30 AM.

10th Annual Firecracker 5K Run-North Port

Selby Gardens’ All American Barbecue And Independence Day Celebration

BBQ and summer go together like Florida and humidity, you just can’t separate one from the other! Selby Gardens’ All American Barbecue is the place to be this 4th for family-friendly fun and the best BBQ for a thousand miles. The Pit-Masters this year will be Michael’s On East, Polo Grill/Fete Catering, Southern Smoke BBQ, Bricks BBQ, and La Dona Donuts. Live music from the Lauren Mitchell Band will get you in the mood to chow down and celebrate America’s birthday. Bring the kids too, because they will have a whole bunch of fun things just for them to do, too. And of course, fireworks over Sarasota Bay to top off the evening.

811 S. Palm Ave, Sarasota. Fun starts at 6PM and runs until 10PM. Tickets are available at $30 for members, $35 for non-members, and FREE for kids 11 and under.

Selby Gardens’ All American Barbecue and Independence Day Celebration

Fireworks By The Bay Of Sarasota: Island Park

Looking for something a little more relaxed and centered on fireworks? Well bring your chairs, blankets, and coolers down to Bayfront Park and Island Park and grab a spot to watch the show, which starts at 9 PM. The fireworks are visible from anywhere in downtown too, so if you want to shop and grab a drink, don’t worry, you’ll still be able to see the show over the bay.

Fireworks by the Bay of Sarasota

Fireworks Over The Manatee River: Bradenton & Palmetto

The City of Palmetto will be putting on a spectacular fireworks show, beginning at 9 PM. The fireworks can be viewed from both sides of the Manatee River, and downtown Bradenton. Grab the family, bring some chairs and blankets, your cooler full of food and refreshments, and head down to the Manatee River Walk for a great spot for the whole family.

Fireworks over the Manatee River: Bradenton & Palmetto

South Venice Jetty And Fireworks Festival

The Venice Beach area has some great viewing spots for the fireworks displays, but be sure to arrive early as thousands will line the beaches. And if you own a boat – you’ll want to arrive early as well to snag a good spot to anchor. The fireworks are launched from the south end of Venice Jetty, so anywhere on Venice Beach, anchored in the Gulf, or in the Intercoastal Waterway, are good vantage points. Fun starts shortly after 9:00 PM.

South Venice Jetty and Fireworks Festival

26th Annual Siesta Key Fireworks

The Siesta Key fireworks show is one of the most popular 4th of July events in Florida. When the weather’s good crowds of twenty to thirty-thousand people are common! The fireworks display is put on from the north end of the volleyball courts, so good spots for viewing are anywhere south of the volleyball courts along crescent beach and the Intracoastal Waterway. If you have a boat, pilot it over to the area and you have one of the best seats in the house, too! The fun starts at 9 PM, but arrive early for good spots.

26th Annual Siesta Key Fireworks

Anna Maria Island Fireworks

Weather-permitting, this will be the 30th Annual Sandbar Restaurant Fireworks Spectacular on Anna Maria Island. Located at 100 Spring Avenue on the north end of the Island, the Sandbar Restaurant will host a VIP party around 9 PM with cocktails, a buffet, party favors, and music. Grab a seat on the beach and enjoy the show!

Anna Maria Island Fireworks

Locksmith Sarasota wishes you a happy and safe 4th of July and holiday weekend. Remember to celebrate responsibly and not to drink and drive.

If you do lock your keys in your car, give Locksmith Sarasota a call, 24/7. We will get you on back on track, fast!

Smart Home Security Just Got Better With Facial Recognition

This entry was posted in Residential and tagged on by .

Home Security Facial RecognitionIf you believe your home is your castle, you’ll want to make sure that you keep it safe and secure, even when you aren’t at home. With the development of modern home security technology, you can rest assured that your home will be closely monitored all the time with facial recognition

Security systems have evolved to the point that it’s possible to buy a camera that cannot immediately be recognized as a recording device. You can hide it in plain sight in your home. These types of devices have sleek, modern designs that make them appear similar to hi-tech speakers. A casual observer would not guess that they are, in fact, a type of input device for a method of keeping your home safe.

Self-Contained Units For Peace Of Mind

These types of systems are self-contained, but they do require a constant source of power in order to run. You will need a USB cable for this purpose. Since they need constant power, you will have some limitations where to set up the camera.

You can use your smartphone to sync coverage, which means you can monitor what is going on in your home from just about anywhere. If you want to check in on your home from the office, on your daily commute, while you are doing errands or any other time of day, you have the flexibility to do so at your convenience. To store the footage taken from the surveillance camera, all you need is a MicroSD card.

Easy To Set Up Your Facial Recognition System

The best place to aim the camera is toward the front door to your home or a main entry point. You can download monitoring apps for iOS or Android phones or tablets.

You will need to enter your WiFi information into the app in order to have it create a timeline of events. This timeline will be trigger by movement in your home and whether it has seen a face that it “recognizes” before.

When a recognition occurs, you will receive a facial recognition notification on your cell phone. Depending on the app, you may receive captured footage or a live feed. There will be a slight delay (usually a few seconds) from the time the activity is recorded to the time you receive the notification on your phone.

System Does Have Drawbacks

The system is helpful, but it is not flawless. There is no battery backup available, for example. If the power to your home is cut, you will no longer have access to the camera. A burglar could cut the cord to the camera, and you would be left without this security measure. If you lose power to your home, then the system wouldn’t work either.

Although Locksmith Sarasota doesn’t offer facial recognition services. Check out Netatmo if your interested in adding this security to your home. We do offer a wide variety of quality home security services. To find out more about your options regarding a home security system, consult with a licensed locksmith. They can look at your needs and recommend a solution that is right for you.

Benefits Of A Mobile Locksmith

This entry was posted in Automotive, Locks and tagged on by .

Mobile LocksmithMost of us are familiar with going to a hardware store to get a key copied from time to time. If you need the services of a locksmith, there may be times when having someone come to your location would be preferable.

Benefits Of Calling A Mobile Locksmith

 

Fast Response Time

If you find yourself locked out of your home or office, can’t find your car key or it has broken off in the ignition, you’ll want to get help right away. All of these are very stressful situations, and you don’t want to put your, or anyone else’s safety at risk. A mobile locksmith can be dispatched to your exact location as soon as you call, and you will not have to wait long before a professional will arrive to provide assistance.

Available 24 Hours A Day/Seven Days A Week

Emergency services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are locked out of your home, office or car, you don’t have to be concerned about being stuck if the problem occurs outside of regular business hours. Just call the mobile locksmith for help.

Have Equipment To Deal With Variety Of Situations

Mobile locksmiths’ vans are fully stocked with tools and equipment to deal with a variety of situations. The locksmith arrives at your home, office or wherever your car is parked able to deal with your issue, and without having to wait for any parts to arrive.

Mobile Locksmiths Can Perform Several Types Of Services

If you need to contact a mobile locksmith for an emergency lockout, or you need to have your lock rekeyed, installed or replaced, you can get all of these services from the same provider. Mobile locksmiths can come to you and provide prompt, professional services for your security needs. They can also provide information about and installation of digital and electronic lock systems.

Locksmith Sarasota is your mobile locksmith choice in Sarasota, Florida. As a family-owned and operated business, we understand how important it is to keep your family and your property secure. We are licensed, bonded, and insured, and respond to calls in 25 minutes or less. Call us now!

How Car Key Cutting Works

This entry was posted in Automotive, Keys and tagged , on by .

Lost Keys Left On FloorIf you have ever had the misfortune of losing your car keys or breaking one inside the ignition you know how important it is to get a replacement as quickly and efficiently as possible. A locksmith can help you to get a car key replacement, but the exact procedure for car key cutting will depend on the make and model of your vehicle.

Most vehicles have an ignition key that is outfitted with a transponder. It is a type of anti-theft device that prevents a key other than the one programmed for your exact vehicle from being used to start the car. New model car keys also have an integrated fob on the key which has buttons to lock and unlock the doors.

Left Keys In CarMake A Pattern For The New Key

No matter which type of key-cutting machine is used, the first step in the process is to take a blank key and cutting it to match the original one. When making a new key for a new lock or a replacement key for an existing lock, the locksmith creates a pattern corresponding to the lock’s internal pattern of pins.

Types Of Key-Cutting Machines

An automatic machine is outfitted with two sets of vice grips so that it can copy a key from the original one using a stylus. The machine traces the pattern of the original key a stylus. It cuts the same shape into the blank key simultaneously.

A laser machine works in the same way as an automatic key-cutting machine, although it uses a laser to cut the blank key instead of a blade. Lasers can be used to add dimples to the surface of a key, as required by certain of today’s more sophisticated vehicle systems.

How A Locksmith Determines The Code For Cutting Keys

When cutting a key for a new lock or making a replacement key when the original was lost or stolen, the locksmith enters the codes into the machine manually or inserts a card with the details. The latter method is more efficient, and allows the machine to create the new key without the need for supervision.

Once the key is cut, an automotive locksmith can program it for you so that you can use it to start your car. You will need to show your license and registration to confirm ownership of the vehicle for verification purposes first.

New KeyUnfortunately some make and models require you to have to go to the manufacturer. You’ll need to go the specific manufacturer. You may be required to show proof of ownership and will need your identification. Most manufacturer’s have the duplicate of your key on hand if you purchased the car there, and you’ll have to purchase an second key which they will order and hold again for you.

Locksmith Sarasota is your first choice when looking for an automotive locksmith in Sarasota, FL. We’re bonded, insured, and can get you transponder keys, chip keys and laser cut keys quickly so that you can be on your way. Call us to learn more about our key cutting and locksmith services!

4 Steps To Take When You Lose Your Car Keys

This entry was posted in Automotive, Keys and tagged on by .

4 Steps To Take When You Lose Your Car KeysIt’s easy to forget how crucial your car keys are to your daily routine until you actually lose them. At that point, you will quickly realize and experience just how important they really are. There is hope however.

Four Steps To Take When You Lose Your Car Keys

You can get your car keys replaced and by following these steps, you’ll have the new ones in your hands quickly.

1. Find And Write Down Your Car’s VIN Number

The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) can usually be found on the driver’s side dashboard or in the door jamb. Other places it may be located are on the front of the engine block, in the trunk or on a rear wheel well.

You can also find this information listed on your auto insurance policy. It should be listed on each page.

2. Record The Make, Model And Year Of Your Car

This information is necessary for you to know the precise type of key necessary to open your type of car.

3. Check Your Car Insurance Or New Car Warranty

If your car is new or you have purchased a high end vehicle, you may not be able to get a replacement electronic key from any source other than the manufacturer or a distributor. Call your dealership and ask them what you’ll need. Most likely, they’ll ask for your car’s information (VIN #, make/model/year) as well as warranty details (if applicable). You may need to bring this information, along with your photo ID, to the dealership. If you’re under warranty, you may be able to get a discount.

If this step isn’t efficient, it’s after hours and the dealership is closed or it’s too expensive, try the next step of calling an auto locksmith.

4. Call An Auto Locksmith

Depending on the type of key you have, you may be able to have a new one electronically programmed by a locksmith. A number of new keys are fitted with a microchip to prevent them from being duplicated. However, if you have a transponder key, you should be able to get a replacement from an auto locksmith without having to pay hundreds of dollars for it.

Trusted Auto Locksmith In Sarasota

If you lose your vehicle’s keys, contact our expert automotive locksmith technicians. We are your trusted auto locksmith in Sarasota and we will do what we can to get your car keys quickly replaced and get you back on the road. Call Us Now!

Click Here To Learn More About Our Auto Locksmith Services

Purchasing A Transponder Key At Retailers vs. The Automotive Manufacturer

This entry was posted in Automotive, Keys and tagged on by .

Pros, Cons-Transponder Key At Retailers vs. Automotive ManufacturerWhen you buy a new or newer vehicle, the dealer will usually give you what’s called transponder, chipped or automotive security keys. Most of the new cars available on the market today come equipped with this type of key.

How Does A Transponder Key Work?

A transponder key is equipped with an RF responder. Your vehicle has a device placed near its ignition switch which is a receiver. The key emits a unique low-level signal that your car is only able to detect once you put that specific key (or the second key) into the ignition.

Automotive manufacturers use transponder keys to prevent cars from being hot-wired. The car cannot be started unless the device at the switch detects the right signal from the key. If someone tries to use a copied key to start the car and it doesn’t have the right signal, the car will not start. Likewise, if someone tries to steal the car by hot-wiring it, the car won’t start because the signal from the key is missing.

Purchasing A Transponder Key At Retailers vs. The Automotive Manufacturer

Discover the pros and cons of purchasing your security, chipped car keys at a retail store compared to the auto dealer.

Transponder Keys From A Retailer

Some retailers have unlock codes for different models of transponder keys. You will need to buy a transponder key from the store and have an employee program it for your vehicle. This option is less expensive than buying a transponder key from the automotive manufacturer, but you still need to go to the store to make a purchase. There is also a chance that the key you buy will not work correctly in your specific make and model of car. It’s important to thoroughly test it several times (open your car doors, start, shift into different gears, shut off and start again) before leaving the store.

Transponder Keys From The Automotive Manufacturer (Dealer)

You do have the option of getting a replacement transponder key supplied by your car manufacturer. You would need to take your vehicle registration and your ID to a dealership to have a key cut from your car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The advantage to using this method is that you would be assured that the chipped key would work in your vehicle. The disadvantage is the cost. This is the most expensive method of purchasing these types of keys.

Click here to find out if you have a transponder key and what to do if you lock your keys in your car!